“Some misunderstandings emerged between Lo Monaco and President MaurizioZamparini. I found myself in the middle and it wasn’t easy to move in that situation,” Gasperini told Il GiornalediSicilia.

“I immediately used the new signings because I realised time was tight and I tried to rush through the changes.

“It’s a shame I cannot continue now that the squad is larger and more complete. We had done well up until the Sicilian Derby against Catania in November, but from then onwards something was always missing.

“Victories within our grasp became draws and certain draws turned into defeats at the last minute. I feel angry, bitter and let down. We often picked up less than we deserved, but the results make the difference.

“Considering Zamparini’s usual habits, I think he resisted quite a long time before firing me. The last few weeks were truly difficult in every sense. My personal issues did not help the situation.

“I have to thank the players, who never held back, and everyone who worked with me.”

Gasperini lost both his mother and father in the space of 24 days just weeks before he was fired.